Ultimate Cheesy Mashed Potato Bake
Indulge in the creamy goodness of our Ultimate Cheesy Mashed Potato Bake, a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. This satisfying casserole features tender potatoes whipped to perfection with a trio of luscious cheeses: melting cheddar, creamy muenster, and tangy cream cheese. Topped with a rich layer of sour cream and a hint of butter, this dish is baked until bubbly and golden. Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a side dish to elevate any main course, this casserole is sure to please cheese lovers and potato fans alike!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
large potatoes
4 (peeled and cubed)
sour cream
1 (cup)
cream cheese
3 (ounces, softened)
butter
1/4 (cup, softened)
milk
2/3 (cup)
shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 (cup)
shredded muenster cheese
1/2 (cup)
salt
1 1/2 (teaspoons)
pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
1. Peel and cube the potatoes, then place them in a large pot of salted boiling water.
2
2. Cook the potatoes for approximately 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
3
3. Add sour cream, cream cheese, softened butter, salt, and pepper to the cooked potatoes. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
4
4. Gradually stir in the milk until the desired consistency is reached. Fold in the shredded cheddar and muenster cheeses until evenly distributed.
5
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6
6. Spoon the cheesy potato mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.
7
7. Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is slightly golden.
8
8. Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Cheesy Mashed Potato Bake?
It is a rich and creamy potato casserole made with mashed potatoes, three types of cheese, sour cream, and butter, then baked until golden.
What ingredients are needed for this potato bake?
You will need 4 large potatoes, sour cream, cream cheese, butter, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded muenster cheese, salt, and pepper.
How long should I boil the potatoes?
Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes for approximately 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a blend of cheddar, muenster, and cream cheese for maximum creaminess and flavor.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until it is heated through and the top is slightly golden.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, the instructions recommend peeling and cubing the potatoes before boiling.
Can I use an electric mixer to mash the potatoes?
Yes, you can use either a manual potato masher or an electric mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
How much milk should I add?
The recipe calls for 2/3 cup of milk, which should be stirred in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
What size casserole dish is required?
You should use a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato mixture in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you are ready to serve.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of softened butter.
What is the role of muenster cheese in this dish?
Muenster cheese adds a mild, creamy melting quality that complements the tangy cheddar and cream cheese.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
No, the instructions specify baking the casserole uncovered to help the top become slightly golden.
How much cream cheese is needed?
You will need 3 ounces of softened cream cheese.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Allow it to cool slightly after baking and serve it as a side dish for family gatherings or potlucks.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
Can I substitute the muenster cheese?
While muenster is recommended for its creaminess, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack or additional cheddar if needed.
What makes these potatoes 'ultimate'?
The combination of three cheeses, sour cream, and butter creates an exceptionally rich and indulgent flavor profile.
Can I add extra toppings?
The description mentions a hint of butter and sour cream on top, but you could also add green onions or bacon bits for extra flavor.
How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?
The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork easily slides into the center of a cube.
Does this recipe include garlic?
The base recipe does not include garlic, focusing instead on the flavors of the trio of cheeses.
How much sour cream is in the mixture?
The recipe requires 1 cup of sour cream mixed directly into the potatoes.
Can I use red potatoes?
The recipe calls for large potatoes (typically Russets or Yukon Golds for mashing), but red potatoes can be used for a slightly different texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
How do I reheat the potato bake?
Reheat portions in the microwave or place the dish back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Is the texture smooth or chunky?
The recipe intends for the potatoes to be mashed until smooth and creamy.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger 9x13 inch baking dish, though baking time may increase slightly.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a casserole, comfort food, side dish, and family meal.